News of the phone call between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday, in which they agreed to meet in person to discuss the war in Ukraine, will have come as an unwelcome surprise to Kyiv.
The country is being hit hard. The last 24 hours alone have seen Russia launch dozens of missiles and more than 300 drones at multiple targets, including a large amount of civilian infrastructure, leading to damage in the gas supply network as winter approaches.
Attacks on the electrical grid have resulted in nationwide power outages. Despite this, the Ukrainian government views the intensified Russian assault as a sign of desperation, with frontlines at an effective stalemate, causing significant loss of life and minimal territorial gains.
President Volodymyr Zelensky's hopes for increased American military assistance were high as he departed for Washington, believing US support was shifting positively toward Ukraine. However, the unexpected Trump-Putin phone call complicates the talks.
While in flight, Zelensky was not only facing Russia's continued onslaught but also Trump and Putin's conversation that, according to analysts, detracts from Zelensky's anticipated discussions in Washington.
Zelensky's aspiration was to gain approval from Trump for the procurement of long-range Tomahawk missiles, which could enhance Ukraine's striking capabilities against Russian targets. Trump’s frustration with Putin, however, remains palpable, leading to uncertainty about the potential for decisive military support for Ukraine.
The phone call has raised questions about the US's commitment to providing these advanced weapons, leaving Ukrainian leaders anxious about their future military assistance as winter looms.
Zelensky conveyed a resilient front upon arrival, suggesting that Russia's outreach reflected a state of panic. Meanwhile, the Kremlin has dismissed such interpretations as they prepare for upcoming discussions with Trump.
